By Sarah Steele

Amerisure does not take its volunteer duties lightly. There were nearly 20 Amerisure employees in attendance at the 2012 State Golf and Softball Finals. Competition began Thursday, July 19 at Pine View Golf Course in Ypsilanti and continued on Saturday, July 21 at the Canton Sports Center.

"My favorite part of the event is the day itself," Amerisure employee Linda DeSimone said. "Watching the athletes get better every year. Spending time with them; I love this."

Linda and co-worker Judy Greer continue coming back for more. Linda has volunteered at the event for at least five years and Judy has been in attendance a total of three years. Linda's department has participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run® Polar Plunge the past few years as well.

"Amerisure sponsors this competition and I want to support the sponsorship," said Judy. "It's important to make sure it continues."

Amerisure volunteers supported more than 1,000 athletes involved in the 2012 State Golf and Softball Finals. They assisted at the golf skills events, as well as accompanied athletes through the course as walkers. At the Canton Sports Center, Amerisure volunteers took on roles as announcers, score keepers and had ball return and water duties.

"Former board member Doug Kinnan's daughter was an athlete," said Kathy Kurz-Crowe, administrative assistant who coordinates Amerisure volunteer efforts. "Her involvement in Special Olympics Michigan sparked our involvement with the event and sponsorship."

Amerisure has been involved with Special Olympics for more than twenty years. In 2002, the company renewed its commitment with financial support and volunteer efforts. Since then, Amerisure has raised nearly $300,000 and has more than 40 employees that volunteer on an annual basis. Amerisure is the presenting sponsor of the State Golf and Softball Finals and the Statewide Silver Medal Sponsor.

The Softball competition will continue on Saturday, July 28 at the Versluis/Dickinson Softball Complex in Kalamazoo as well as St. Johns Youth Baseball Association Ball Fields in St. Johns. Be sure to join Amerisure and support the athletes as they continue competition!